Re: Drilling 1/16" diameter 5" long offset hole into 3/8" Aluminum Hex Stock
hi jesset there may be alignment issues with the drill press
whatever machine you choose, you should be sure that tools are coaxial with the spindle, and the linear movement of the machine is paralel with the tool
at such small diameters, is better to rotate the tool then to rotate the part; rotating the part will put more stress on the tool
use more tools, starting from short to long ( just like handlewanker said ), and also check the machine alignment before begining
pecking is critical, and you should use a thin wire & air to clean the hole, so to be sure that there are no chips inside ( it helps if the part is clamped in a horizontal position )
if you reach half of the desired depth, and you wish to flip the part, then you need to check the alignment of your fixture, and it may be better to don't flip the part, but to continue to reach the full depth
try a classical mill with horizontal spindle, and someone with a gentle hand so to feel the cutting ... kindly
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